MLB Restricts AI Features on Dugout Tablets to Level Playing Field

Major League Baseball moved Wednesday to curtail the use of artificial intelligence systems integrated into dugout tablets, implementing restrictions set to take effect before the second half of the season begins. The league disabled specialized software that had enabled teams to access algorithmic decision-support capabilities beyond the devices’ original scope of use.

Morgan Sword, MLB’s executive vice president for baseball operations, outlined the new restrictions in a memorandum distributed to team executives on June 11. The document, obtained by The Associated Press and initially reported by The Athletic, revealed that the disabled functions had provided teams with algorithm-generated recommendations on roster decisions, pitching strategy, and other matters typically within the domain of field managers and coaching staff.

League investigators determined that while teams had technically adhered to existing rules, the practical application of these tools had diverged significantly from their intended use. MLB leadership concluded the technology required realignment with league standards to preserve competitive integrity.

The June announcement afforded franchises sufficient time to restructure operations before the season’s second half commenced. Officials framed the action as a corrective measure rather than disciplinary action against any particular team.

MLB’s tablet program originated with a testing phase in late 2015 and became official policy in 2016 following an agreement with Apple. The league suspended video playback functionality in 2020 following the Houston Astros sign-stealing controversy, later reinstating the feature in 2021.